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Cabrits National Park: Where History and Nature Converge

Explore Dominica's Cabrits National Park: History, nature, hiking, and snorkeling await in this Caribbean paradise. Discover Fort Shirley and more!

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Cabrits National Park, located on a peninsula north of Portsmouth, Dominica, is a protected area encompassing tropical forests, coral reefs, and wetlands. It's best known for Fort Shirley, an 18th-century British garrison, offering a unique blend of historical and natural attractions.

A brief summary to Cabrits National Park

  • HGPG+G8F, Portsmouth, DM

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the trails, and bring insect repellent and water.
  • Visit in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light.
  • If visiting during the rainy season (June to October), be prepared for sudden showers.
  • Try local snacks from vendors near the park entrance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Portsmouth, head north along the main road towards Cabrits National Park. The walk is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) and takes around 20-30 minutes. Be mindful of traffic. Once at the park entrance, there is an entrance fee of US$5 (EC$13.25).

  • Public Transport

    Local buses (minibuses), often called 'bus', operate from Portsmouth to the Cabrits National Park area. Look for buses labeled 'Cabrits' or 'Douglas Bay' at the main bus station in Portsmouth. The bus fare is around EC$5-EC$10 per person. The bus will drop you off near the park entrance, from where you can walk to the visitor center and Fort Shirley.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Portsmouth, taxis are readily available to Cabrits National Park. The ride is short, approximately 10-15 minutes, heading north from the town center. Agree on a fare before starting your journey; a typical one-way fare should be around EC$20-EC$30. The taxi will drop you off at the park entrance.

Unlock the Best of Cabrits National Park

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Discover more about Cabrits National Park

Cabrits National Park, established in 1986, spans 1,313 acres (5.30 sq km) on the northern tip of Dominica. The park's name is derived from the French word for "goat," referencing the animals that once roamed the area. The park was created to protect both the cultural heritage of Fort Shirley and the surrounding environment. The park's geography is dominated by two volcanic hills, East Cabrit (140 m) and West Cabrit (171 m), remnants of an ancient volcanic crater. These hills are connected to mainland Dominica by sweeping material from Douglas Bay and Prince Rupert Bay. The diverse landscapes include tropical dry forests, coastal stretches, and coral reefs. Fort Shirley, constructed in 1765 by the British, served as a military outpost to defend Dominica. Expanded by the French between 1778 and 1784, it housed over 600 men and featured over 50 buildings. The fort was abandoned in 1854 and later restored by Dr. Lennox Honychurch. It is now used for various functions, such as weddings and concerts. Fort Shirley is also historically significant as the site of the 1802 West India Regiment Rebellion, a revolt by African soldiers against British colonial rule. Visitors can explore well-marked hiking trails that lead through lush forests to scenic viewpoints. The park offers opportunities for snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs around Douglas Bay. Bird watching is also popular due to the park's diverse habitats.

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